The redevelopment of High Wycombe’s town centre has taken a step forward with the submission of a planning application to Wycombe District Council.

Project Phoenix is the brainchild of Stratford upon Avon-based property and development group, Stannifer, co-owners of the town’s Octagon shopping centre.

The proposed 650,000sq ft development includes a covered shopping street – incorporating a large department store – connecting to the Octagon, plus a selection of restaurants, cafés and bars.

A new leisure complex is also planned for the site and a spokesperson for Stannifer said the company has been in discussions with operators about the provision of a 10-screen multiplex cinema or bowling centre.

The company anticipates work on the project commencing next year, with opening planned for the spring of 2007.